NEWS IN 2022.

News 

We began the year with a new chairperson, David Penn, and a new secretary, Mike Dobson. We also welcomed another trustee, Eilidh Kerr.

David Penn, who previously held the position of ArCaS secretary, said: “I am honoured to have been elected as chairperson by my fellow trustees and I wish to pay tribute to my predecessor, Douglas Johnston, who decided to retire after giving many years of leadership, direction and support to this unique island cancer charity.”

“Our board of trustees are all volunteers who give their time and experience freely to make sure that ArCaS uses its funds and resources wisely in supporting island people who are impacted by cancer in a variety of ways”, added David.

“I am excited to lead this much loved island charity as we move forward with confidence, drawing upon the wisdom of long-standing trustees and tapping into fresh ideas, energy and enthusiasm from new trustees”, David concluded.

In January, we featured in our prestigious local newspaper, the Arran Banner, which reported our new trustee appointments and our charity receiving a £2,000 donation from Clyde Crematorium.

In April, our secretary was quoted extensively in a BBC online article which looked at ferry issues affecting the island. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-60839586?fbclid=IwAR3AXFMVeJQ5MA9e4CSxoYdoTylxPnmP8dy_MC2mnRa-2jR0nNeOuHcYHgs

On the same theme, we also featured in The Times newspaper CalMac ferry chaos leads to missed cancer consultations | Scotland | The Times (this article may be behind a subscription panel).

In both articles, we highlighted our concern that cancer patients were being strongly impacted by the cancellation of ferries to and from the mainland.

"In September, Carol Harwood became the charity’s first ever Support Co-ordinator. Carol will play a key role in increasing the charity’s visibility, developing its fundraising activities and knitting the various cancer-related services together.

Announcing the appointment, David Penn, Chair of ArCaS, said: “The needs of islanders affected by cancer, either directly or indirectly, have the potential to be overwhelming and we are here to help with financial, medical, transportation and emotional support.”

This appointment has the potential to help us move forward strongly in key areas, including being even more accessible than ever, with Carol as a single point of contact where an individual’s needs can be assessed and individual support plans implemented”, David added.

Island-based residents who are worried about cancer, can call Carol Harwood the new ArCaS Support Co-ordinator on 07398 477434 or contact her via email to arcascoord@gmail.com